The content provided on this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly advise readers to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns.
To reflect its medicinal nature rather than recreational use, we prefer the term ‘medical cannabis’ over terms such as ‘marijuana’, “grass”. or ‘dope’ which may carry negative connotations.
The opinions expressed in the blog belong to the respective authors, who are not medical professionals, and may not necessarily align with those of Lyphe Clinic. Lyphe Clinic does not endorse any specific products or services mentioned, except those provided through Lyphe Clinic.
Readers should be aware that the legality of medical cannabis varies by location, and this disclaimer may be subject to periodic updates.
If you’re navigating the challenges of glaucoma, discovering effective methods to alleviate your symptoms is essential. Among the various options available, edibles have emerged as a favoured choice for numerous patients seeking relief.
Hence, in this comprehensive guide, we delve into the best edibles for glaucoma, aiming to assist you in identifying the most suitable options for your needs. Our goal is to simplify your decision-making process, ensuring you find the most effective relief from your symptoms.
When considering edibles for glaucoma symptoms, the source of the product is just as crucial as its type.
Aspect | Medical Cannabis | Black Market Weed |
Safety and Quality | Subject to rigorous safety standards, including being free from contaminants. | High risk of contamination (microbes, pesticides, metals). |
Dosage Accuracy | Precise THC/CBD levels for consistent dosing, supporting symptom management. | Potency levels can vary widely, complicating dosage accuracy. |
Regulatory and Legal Issues | Legal purchase and use, with professional guidance available. | Illegal purchase and use may lead to legal consequences. |
Contamination Risks | Lower risk due to regulated production environments. | Higher risk due to lack of regulation. |
Consumer Education and Support | Access to professional advice on product selection and use. | Lack of professional guidance and support. |
Targeted Formulations | Products may be specifically designed for glaucoma symptom relief. | Generic products with no specific focus on glaucoma. |
Clinical Support and Insurance | Potential for insurance coverage and cost support; backed by healthcare professional recommendations. | No insurance coverage; lack of skilled healthcare recommendations. |
Understanding these differences enables glaucoma patients to make more informed decisions regarding the use of edibles for symptom management. This underscores the advantages of legal and medical-grade cannabis products over their illicit counterparts.
Your choice of healthcare partner is essential when managing glaucoma symptoms. Here are some key reasons why you should consider partnering with Lyphe for your wellness:
Choosing us at Lyphe means opting for a partner dedicated to enhancing your well-being through a more holistic approach to health management. We invite you to begin this journey with us and see how our combination of expertise, convenience, and personal support can make a difference in your life.
Book your online appointment today, and let’s take this step together towards a healthier tomorrow.
Glaucoma is an umbrella term for eye disorders that damage the optic nerve, a component vital for optimal vision, as it is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Any damage to this nerve progressively affects the field of vision, starting with the peripheral (side) view. Without timely intervention, glaucoma can eventually lead to total vision loss.
The primary cause of this damage is often elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which arises from an imbalance in the production and drainage of aqueous humour, the fluid in the eye. Over time, this increased pressure can harm the optic nerve, further advancing the condition. [1]
Glaucoma is often termed the ”silent thief of sight” as its symptoms are scarcely noticeable until the condition is at an advanced stage.
Some of the symptoms include:
These symptoms primarily make early detection pivotal. To this end, regular eye check-ups allow for appropriate intervention and help prevent extensive loss.
The fight against glaucoma begins with proactive measures aimed at prevention and early detection. While some risk factors, such as age and genetic predisposition, cannot be altered, several strategies can help mitigate the risk of developing glaucoma or halt its progression in the early stages.
Tip | Description |
Regular Eye Check-Ups | Regular visits to your healthcare provider or ophthalmologist are crucial for early detection and treatment, particularly if you are above the age of 60 or have a family history of the condition. |
Pressure Checks | Routine checks of intraocular pressure can help identify onset. |
Peripheral Vision Assessment | Regular tests of your peripheral vision can also help detect glaucoma. |
Adopting certain lifestyle modifications can further help in minimising the risk of glaucoma. These may include the following:
The exploration of medical cannabis in glaucoma management began in the 1970s. [5] Research indicates that specific substances and compounds within the cannabis plant may help alleviate symptoms.
Notably, a 2019 study in Translational Vision Science & Technology highlighted that delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the plant’s primary psychoactive component, can reduce eye pressure, a key risk factor for optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients. [6] However, these effects are short-lived, lasting only a few hours, which implies the need for frequent dosing to maintain consistent eye pressure regulation throughout the day.
Further evidence from a 2018 study in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science also showed significant intraocular pressure reduction following THC consumption, suggesting a potential to slow glaucoma progression in the short term. [7] It is pivotal to note that edibles, offering a more controlled administration route than inhalation, might serve as a viable alternative for certain patients. Nonetheless, the psychoactive effects with edibles can be more intense and longer-lasting, and individual reactions may vary.
Additionally, some studies suggest that cannabinoids may have neuroprotective properties, potentially safeguarding retinal neurons from damage. [8] This characteristic opens an avenue for the development of novel treatments relying on the neuroprotective properties of marijuana. However, more research is needed to fully understand and harness these benefits.
Exploration of alternative approaches for symptom management in glaucoma patients has led to interest in edible cannabis products. These ingestible forms offer a number of advantages over other forms of consumption, such as:
Type | Onset | Duration | Ease of Use | Dosing Precision | Notes |
Gummies | 30-90 mins | 4-8 hours | High | High | Portable and discreet; consistent dosing for managing intraocular pressure. |
Baked Goods (Cookies, Brownies) | 30-90 mins | 4-8 hours | Medium | Medium | Can be comforting; dosing can vary based on size and preparation. |
Mints and Candies | 15-30 mins | 2-5 hours | High | High | Sublingual absorption can offer quicker onset; discreet and easy to dose. |
Cooking or Baking Oils | Variable | 4-8 hours | Low | Variable | Versatile for homemade edibles; dosing precision requires careful calculation. |
Beverages | 15-60 mins | 4-8 hours | Medium | Medium | Hydration plus treatment; onset time and duration can vary with liquid absorption. |
Gummies are a convenient, tasty alternative for glaucoma symptom management, allowing precise dosing with various flavour choices. They combine ease of use with consistent active ingredient amounts for reliable relief.
Baked items such as cookies and brownies introduce a familiar way for patients to access necessary cannabinoids. Often, these products incorporate the active ingredients into a satisfying and tasty treat, making them an enjoyable means of symptom management. Just like gummies, these are formulated to contain precise amounts of cannabinoids.
For quicker absorption, lozenges or candies excel. Some of these products are designed to dissolve under the tongue, leading to the direct entry of active ingredients into the bloodstream through oral mucosa. Aside from this, mints and candies offer an additional benefit of discretion, as they resemble common confectionery items.
Adding oils to your cooking or baking recipes unlocks a versatile way of ingesting cannabinoids. These oils seamlessly blend with meals, offering a way to ingest cannabinoids alongside nutrients from your food. This method can be helpful if the intake needs to be incorporated into daily meals for sustained symptom management.
Beverages infused with cannabinoids present a hydrating and simple means of ingestion. Such drinks can range from teas and coffees to fruit juices, offering something for every palate. This category can serve as an excellent choice for those who prefer liquids and want something refreshing yet functional.
When it comes to medical cannabis for glaucoma, selecting the most appropriate option plays an essential role.
Factor | Description |
Dosage | The amount of active ingredients (e.g., THC) is crucial for managing symptoms effectively without causing discomfort. |
Type of Edible | Gummies, baked goods, mints, oils, and beverages each offer different experiences and durations of effect. |
Onset Time | Understanding how quickly an infused product begins to work is important for timing consumption. |
Duration of Effect | Some edibles provide longer relief than others, which is vital for continuous symptom control. |
Taste Preferences | Choosing edibles that are enjoyable to consume can enhance one’s overall experience and encourage consistent use. |
Dietary Restrictions | It’s important for individuals with dietary limitations to select options that align with their health needs and preferences. |
Accessibility | Consider the availability of specific edibles within your region and the ease of obtaining them regularly. |
Navigating the world of edibles for glaucoma can be complex. Consulting with healthcare professionals ensures that decisions are well-informed and tailored to individual health needs and circumstances.
Hence, for personalised advice and guidance, trust Lyphe. Our experienced practitioners are dedicated to offering safe and legal access to quality products for eye health management.
Efficiently managing glaucoma symptoms with natural remedies like medical weed requires understanding and implementing key dosage principles, such as:
Principle | Description |
Start Low and Go Slow | Begin with very small amounts, gradually increasing to find the minimal effective dose. |
Acknowledge Individual Tolerance | Factors such as body weight and metabolism influence how one reacts to weed-infused products. |
Patiently Wait for the Effects | It can take up to two hours for edibles to manifest their effects. Refrain from taking more during this waiting period to avoid overdose. |
Track Responses | Monitoring reactions to different dosages is essential for adjusting intake accurately. |
Maintain Consistent Use | Regular usage aids in determining the most effective dose more reliably. |
Professional Guidance | Consulting healthcare professionals when adjusting doses ensures safety and efficacy. |
Exploring the best edibles for glaucoma allows patients to find palatable, discreet, and controlled options that align with their lifestyle and taste preferences. Remember, the journey to effective symptom management is personal and varies from one individual to another.
If you’re seeking to embark on this journey with confidence and informed support, it’s crucial to have the right partner by your side. So, what are you waiting for? Book your consultation with Lyphe for guidance and a seamless path towards managing your wellness.
Glaucoma currently has no cure, but its progression can be managed or slowed with proper medical intervention. Treatment often includes medications such as eye drops or surgery to reduce intraocular pressure.
Several plants, such as cannabis, Ginkgo biloba, and bilberry, are recognised for their potential benefits to ocular health, particularly in the context of glaucoma. Given that these plants can interact with other treatments, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your regimen.
The fastest way to reduce eye pressure typically involves the use of prescription eye drops and, in some urgent cases, oral medication. Consultation with an eye care expert is essential to determine appropriate and effective treatment for your situation.
Cannabidiol (CBD) has demonstrated potential as a therapeutic strategy by influencing several pathways involved in the disease, including the inhibition of the WNT/β-catenin pathway, which plays a key role in glaucoma development. However, CBD doesn’t reverse the condition but may help manage and slow down its progression. [9]
Lyphe is your patient-first path to wellness, so book an appointment with one of our medical cannabis expert Doctors and get the relief you need.
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